With a major source of transmission in Victoria’s latest outbreak now linked to construction sites, the state government has announced a massive compliance blitz to ensure the sector remains open and CovidSafe.
To slow the spread of coronavirus and protect the Victorian health system, a four-week blitz will be carried out by the government’s Industry Enforcement and Engagement Operation, in partnership with Worksafe and the Victorian Building Authority.
Many people working in construction are young, highly mobile and unvaccinated. Given the increased public health risks, the joint operation will have a ‘zero tolerance’ approach and will apply fines and prohibition notices to fix any serious non-compliance.
“Our construction industry is critical to our state, but what is even more important is vaccinating each and every Victorian so we can slow the spread of the virus,” Treasurer Tim Pallas said.
“The construction sector’s ability to remain open is on a knife’s edge, and to ensure they can keep building, people need to get vaccinated and follow the rules.”
Some 20,000 further priority Pfizer appointments will made available to construction workers at all sites across Victoria (excluding drive-through sites).
All workers should book via the Coronavirus hotline only between Monday and Friday this week to ensure they receive priority access. These priority appointments will be available through to Sunday this week.
To increase vaccination coverage among construction workers, four major vaccination centres in Melbourne will accept walk-ups without a booking, every day from today until September 26.
The government also said it will release thousands of further priority Pfizer appointments for the sector and provide unlimited access to AstraZeneca.
Anyone who works at a site where civil works, building or construction activities take place, including contractors and architects working onsite, will be eligible. Workers can also book to get vaccinated with their local GP or selected pharmacists across the state.
For more information call the coronavirus hotline on 1800 675 398 or visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au.
